Fun for all at Wild West Fest

CARLSBAD — The scene at the 2nd annual Wild West Fest at the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park was punctuated with fun for the whole family. At every turn, a good time was had by all on May 14. Be it the live country music or having the kids saddle up for a mechanical bull or pony ride, there was something for everybody.
But most of all, visitors had the chance to wander around a historic park.
“This used to be a working ranch,” said Craddock Stropes, community coordinator at city of Carlsbad. “So the opportunity for the public to come and re-experience the days when cattle roamed this very ranch is exciting and unique.”
At one section of the ranch, the Alpine Outlaws oversaw the mock jailhouse. Stropes said if someone wanted to have a family member arrested for fun, a sheriff was on hand to toss someone in the pokey for a little while.
Also there were Wild West exhibitions and cowboys doing their own fair share of trick roping. If the kids wanted a break from pony or bronco rides, they made a beeline for the western style arts and crafts area.
For those who love salsa, Chili’s Restaurant sponsored and judged a salsa making contest. Amateurs and professionals were invited to participate while guests had a chance to sample the savories.
As the Wild West Fest was winding down, some guests were spotted walking the picturesque Rancho Carrillo Trail to top off a perfect afternoon.